SP PNG Hunters

Hunters Season Launch Cancelled

In a media release today, the PNG Hunters regrated to inform all stakeholders that tonight's event has been cancelled due to a COVID-19 outbreak in the Port Moresby area.

The club has heeded the advice of relevant governing bodies and determined that the health and safety of all scheduled to be involved in today’s event is the main priority. 

SP PNG Hunters’ Chairman Stan Joyce says the decision is disappointing but necessary.

Hunters Confirm Trials

Hunters Coach, Matt Church this week confirmed the two trial matches against Fiji Kaiviti Silktails and Central Queensland Capras are happening as scheduled at the end of February and early March.

The trail matches are crucial for the team moving forward as they will provide a platform for coach Church to assess and test out the team’s structural play, combinations and understanding of the new rules ,in real game situations before the season kicks off.

Hunters to launch 2022 season

The invitation only event, to be held at Oil Search National Football Stadium (OSNFS), is a chance for the SP PNG Hunters’ to thank their corporate partners, sponsors and fans for the ongoing support and contributions to the club.

In line with the event, the SP PNG Hunters will eagerly launch their 2022 Season Membership Program – the first of its kind in the club’s proud history. More information on this will be provided in the coming days.

SP PNG Hunters’ CEO Scott Barker is grateful for the support provided by sponsors.

Hunters Extend Trukai Sponsorship

Trukai’s Marketing Manager Maryanne Tom said, “Our sponsorship is a demonstration of our continued support and commitment to the development of rugby league and the people of PNG.”

She said, “Trukai’s partnership since the inception of the Hunters, has grown from strength to strength and we’re very proud to still be a part of the family of sponsors and their journey thus far and  wish the Hunters all the very best this season.”

SP PNG Hunters Commercial Manager Alan Moramoro was grateful to see the relationship continue into 2022.

Isaac Ready For Hostplus Cup

He is regarded as one of the most senior members of the current training squad that will be finalized on January 26, 2022 before the team travels down to Queensland on the 28th.

Isaac was recruited by former Hunters coach Michael Marum in 2018 while playing for the Gurias. He proved to be a consistent member of the team until he got injured.

Isaac’s rugby league future was under a serious injury cloud after he was diagnosed with a rare spinal issue that forced him to seek urgent medical treatment while doing studies at the same time.

Church To Announce Team Soon

Coach, Mathew Church has emphasized to the team on getting their mindset right with good attitude towards training sessions and putting the team first.

He said since the preseason started a number of returning Hunters have been terminated or released for compromising the team’s culture.

Church has also brought in a number of outstanding players from the 2021 Digicel Cup competition for experience and direction.

Wartovo Granted Leave

PNG Hunters Coach, Matt Church clarified that Puara had asked for some extended leave to sort out family issue that requires him to remain in PNG for an indefinite period until he’s ready to rejoin the team in Queensland later.

Church is hopeful all goes well for Wartovo and his family with issues sorted out once and for all so he can rejoin the playing group down in Queensland.

Hunters Release Kapinias

Hunters Coach, Matt Church confirmed Epel has been released from the team for breaking team rules. Church said this is unfortunate for young Kapinias because he is highly talented, yet cannot put himself ahead of the team, which he has done.                                                                                                                
Epel had an opportunity to become an NRL player during the last season but his own actions meant that the NRL club backed away from offering him an opportunity.

SP PNG Hunters Confirm Home For 2022

Located at the northern-end of the Gold Coast, the GC Performance Centre is a premier sporting facility boasting state of the art equipment and lodgings and the SP PNG Hunters are excited to continue this relationship into the 2022 season after living and training onsite there last year.  

Director of the Centre, Brendan Flynn said he is pleased to see the SP PNG Hunters return.  

Church Firms Team Culture

He added that it’s all about building strong relationships, trust and confidence, to achieving a fixed outcome.

Since the Hunters preseason training squad was assembled two months ago they have jelled well together. Church said the camaraderie and chemistry amongst both old and new players has been overwhelming.